We’re continuing our three-part series on podcasts-radio that is personalized to a topic in which you are especially interested-with a list of some great podcasts for middle schoolers. 1. Welcome to Night Vale. Tune into the community radio of this desert town for the news on local weather, the mysterious lights overhead, announcements from the Sheriff’s Secret Police, a dog park that prohibits dogs, and dark hooded figures with unknowable powers. Activity to try: Challenge students…
Podcasts have been growing in popularity over the past few years, and it’s more commonplace than not for adults to have a few favorites. It’s basically radio that is personalized to a topic in which you are especially interested–what’s not to like? Kids can also join in the trend! See our list below for some great podcasts for elementary age children. 1. The Radio Adventures of Eleanor Amplified: Listen as world-famous radio reporter Eleanor foils devious…
Will you be working as usual over the February school break? It’s not too early to start looking for February break activities to keep your kids busy and having fun! In fact, many vacation day camps require prior registration and fill up quickly. Check out our list for some great ideas. Boston Children’s Theater: The Runaway Bunny When: Sat 2/9/19 – Sat 2/23/19 Where: 527 Tremont Street, Boston Time: 2:00 PM & 4:00 PM Age:…
It’s hard to fault a child who resists doing homework. After all, she has already put in a long day at school, probably been involved in after-school activities, and, as the late afternoon spills into evening, now faces a pile of assignments. Parents feel it, too — it’s no one’s favorite time of day. But despite the bad rap, homework plays an important role in ensuring that students learn to execute tasks independently. When it’s…
It is essential to human nature to be able to think critically and creatively. Our ability and tendency to think critically and carefully takes precedence over content knowledge, not only in the classroom but in the wider world around us. There are thought to be three different modes of thinking: lateral, divergent, and convergent thought. Convergent thinking (using logic). This type of thinking is also called critical, vertical, analytical, or linear thinking. It generally refers…
Results of a recent study at the University of Michigan show a troubling trend in regards to bullying and empathy in US classrooms. Over the past three decades, empathy among teens has dropped nearly 40 percent, and 1 in 3 students report experiencing bullying at least once. In light of these stats, it’s clear that cultivating and restoring empathy should be a priority in school. Here are four tips for educators looking to create more…
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are becoming more commonly used in our classrooms, with many new tools being added that promote more authentic and immersive learning experiences for students. Educators should welcome these unique tools because they can help with designing more authentic and innovative learning spaces, as well as act as a means to transform how students are learning. These tools enable educators to provide powerful opportunities for students to do more…
While high school is an exciting time of learning and discovery, student’s rarely get the opportunity to experience the world outside of the classroom. These experiences are valuable, preparing students for college and the job market by immersing themselves in a different culture and gaining a better understanding of world. An excellent way for a student to get this experience is by participating in a study abroad program. There are many options and opportunities for…
In one of our first articles of the new year, we will be taking a look back at some of 2018’s biggest pieces education news. The November elections brought lots of good news. The new Democratic majority in the House might be able to hold Betsy DeVos more accountable. Three additional states voted for Medicaid expansion, which should help huge numbers of kids and their families (research has already shown the positive impact on students when they…
The holidays are a special season filled with food, family, friends, and fun, but what do students do when they cannot head back home for the holiday break? Follow these tips if you find yourself far from home this season. Try to begin with coping and realization. We realize that this is easier said than done, but all in all, students should realize that they are not the only one spending a holiday break alone.…
